Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Baroque masterpieces with Mstislav Rostropovich's "Vivaldi, Tartini & Bach, CPE: Cello Concertos." This 1992 release on Warner Classics International is a testament to Rostropovich's virtuosity and his deep connection with the cello. The album spans 51 minutes of exquisite chamber music, featuring concertos by Vivaldi, Tartini, and C.P.E. Bach.
Rostropovich's interpretation of Vivaldi's Cello Concerto in D Minor, RV 406 is a vibrant display of his technical prowess and musical sensitivity. The concerto's three movements, from the lively Allegro non molto to the graceful Minuetto, showcase the full range of the cello's expressive capabilities.
The album continues with Tartini's Cello Concerto in D Major, a work that highlights Rostropovich's ability to convey both the grandeur and intimacy of the Baroque era. The concerto's four movements, including the majestic Largo and the spirited Allegro, demonstrate Rostropovich's mastery of the cello's dynamic range.
The album concludes with C.P.E. Bach's Cello Concerto No. 2 in B-Flat Major, Wq. 171. Rostropovich's rendition of this concerto is a testament to his deep understanding of Bach's musical language. The concerto's three movements, from the delicate Allegretto to the exuberant Allegro assai, showcase Rostropovich's ability to bring out the beauty and complexity of Bach's music.
"Vivaldi, Tartini & Bach, CPE: Cello Concertos" is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the richness and depth of Baroque music. Rostropovich's playing is a reminder of the power of music to transport us to another time and place, and to connect us with the timeless beauty of the human spirit.